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Tornado

The time to prepare for a tornado is well before you see the funnel cloud.
Are you ready?

You don't have to be hit by a tornado to experience damage. Taking a little time to prepare could save you thousands of dollars and hours of clean-up.

• Make sure you have enough insurance coverage
• Take steps to reduce your risk
• Have a safety plan
• If disaster strikes, call 1-800-275-1915

Respect what tornadoes can do—and know what your insurance covers

In an average year, 800 tornadoes are reported nationwide. Often times homes close to a twister are damaged or destroyed by wind, rain and flying debris. Your insurance policy covers repair or rebuilding costs.

If you can't live in your home, Safeco will pay additional living expenses as provided in your policy—typically for up to 12 months. Review your policy for detailed coverage explanations.

Business owners should also consider business income insurance , which covers the costs to replace lost profits, payroll and operating expenses if you are shut down while repairs are being made.

It is important that you review your insurance policy once a year to make sure you have enough coverage to rebuild based on current construction costs. We recommend you work with an independent building contractor to get a precise estimate, and make sure you talk to your agent about your building's unique features.

What to do months before you see the funnel cloud

You can't make your home or business tornado-proof, but you can take steps that improve the odds of surviving the high winds. You may want to call on professionals for the more technical jobs.

• Start at the top—your roof. Fix any areas that need repair. If you are planning to replace your roof, select materials that are designed to withstand high wind.
• If you are planning to replace your windows, select impact-resistant window systems, which have a much better chance of surviving a major windstorm.
• Anchor door frames securely to wall framing and make certain your doors have at least three hinges and a dead bolt security lock with a bolt at least one inch long.

Some important tips if a tornado is headed your way

• If you are in a building, move to an underground shelter, or interior room or hallway on the lowest floor.
• Stay away from windows and corners.
• If you're in your car, get out immediately and find safe shelter or lie flat in a ditch. DO NOT take shelter under an overpass or bridge.
• Flying debris causes most injuries and fatalities so use your arms to protect your head and neck.